Search Results (227)

This paper introduces a new family of q-special polynomials, termed q-general Bell polynomials, and systematically explores their structural and analytical properties. We establish their generating functions, derive explicit series representations, and develop recurrence relations to characterize their combinatorial behavior. Additionally, we characterize their quasi-monomial properties and construct associated differential equations governing these polynomials. To demonstrate the versatility and applicability of this family, we investigate certain examples, including the q-Gould–Hopper–Bell and q-truncated exponential-Bell polynomials, deriving analogous results for each. Further, we employ computational tools in Mathematica to examine zero distributions and produce visualizations, offering numerical and graphical insights into polynomial behavior. Full article

In binder jetting additive manufacturing (BJAM), parts are fabricated layer by layer by depositing a liquid binder on selected regions of the powder bed. Powder particles in the hopper of the printer are dispensed onto the powder bed to form a layer of powder. Powder dispensing rate affects material usage and print quality. Too high dispensing rates can cause excessive powder dispensing, increasing powder waste, while too low dispensing rates may result in incomplete layer formation, leading to reduced density of printed parts. The present study investigates how ultrasonic vibration intensity and initial powder amount in the hopper affect powder dispensing rate in BJAM when using a bimodal powder. A set of experiments with full factorial design were conducted using three levels of ultrasonic vibration intensity (50%, 75%, and 100%) and three levels of initial powder amount (600 g, 1000 g, and 1400 g) in the hopper. The results show that both ultrasonic vibration intensity and initial powder amount, as well as their interaction, significantly influence powder dispensing rate. Powder dispensing rate was higher when ultrasonic vibration intensity was higher or initial powder amount was smaller. Increasing initial powder amount from 600 to 1400 g, resulted in a much bigger decrease in powder dispensing rate when ultrasonic vibration intensity was 50% than when ultrasonic vibration intensity was 100%. Full article

Osteoclasts, which are derived from myeloid precursors, are essential for physiologic bone remodeling but also mediate pathological bone loss in inflammatory diseases such as periodontitis and rheumatoid arthritis. Lysine-specific demethylase (LSD1/KDM1A) is a histone demethylase that modulates the chromatin landscape via demethylation of H3K4me1/2 and H3K9me1/2, thereby regulating the expression of genes essential for deciding cell fate. We previously demonstrated that myeloid-specific deletion of LSD1 (LSD1LysM-Cre) disrupts osteoclast differentiation, leading to enhanced BV/TV under physiological conditions. In this study, we show that LSD1LysM-Cre female mice are similarly resistant to inflammatory bone loss in both ligature-induced periodontitis and K/BxN serum-transfer arthritis models. Bulk RNA-seq of mandibular-derived preosteoclasts from LSD1LysM-Cre mice with ligature-induced periodontitis revealed the upregulation of genes involved in inflammation, lipid metabolism, and immune response. Notably, LSD1 deletion blocked osteoclastogenesis even under TGF-β and TNF co-stimulation, which is an alternative RANKL-independent differentiation pathway. Upregulation of Nlrp3, Hif1α, and Acod1 in LSD1LysM-Cre preosteoclasts suggests that LSD1 is essential for repressing inflammatory and metabolic programs that otherwise hinder osteoclast commitment. These findings establish LSD1 as a critical epigenetic gatekeeper integrating inflammatory and metabolic signals to regulate osteoclast differentiation and bone resorption. Therapeutic inhibition of LSD1 may selectively mitigate inflammatory bone loss while preserving physiological bone remodeling. Full article

The aim of the research was to reduce the irregularity of mineral fertilizer granule flow by developing a tedder-vaulting breaker that prevents the formation of vaults over the sowing windows of the seeder hopper. Existing dosing devices for mineral fertilizers do not provide stable application of the required doses of mineral fertilizers due to vaulting as well as accumulation and sticking of fertilizers in hoppers. In order to achieve a stable and precise metering of high fertilizer doses, a crank tedder is suggested to be mounted inside the hopper. Its function is to break the constantly appearing dynamic vaults above the sowing windows and to crush the fertilizer clods, i.e., to provide the fertilizer sowing units with a continuous flow of material. Theoretical studies were carried out using methods of classical and applied mechanics, special sections of higher mathematics. The following optimal parameters were established: the tedder blade width 0.05–0.09 m, the radius of the elbow 0.028–0.034 m, the blade installation angle 23–27°, and the kinematic mode of the tedder k = 1.5–1.9. Experimental studies have shown that the use of a crank tedder provides a stable flow of mineral fertilizer granules through sowing windows and reduces the sowing unevenness between seeding units by 12–15% and sowing instability by 7–10%. At the same time, the degree of damage to granules of 1–5 mm size is insignificant and is within 2.8–3.5%. Full article

To promote the automation and intelligence of rail freight, the accurate identification and localization of bulk cargo unloading hoppers have become a key technical challenge. Under the technological wave driven by the deep integration of Industry 4.0 and artificial intelligence, the bulk cargo unloading process is undergoing a significant transformation from manual operation to intelligent control. In response to this demand, this paper proposes a vision-based 3D localization system for unloading hoppers, which adopts a single visual sensor architecture and integrates three core modules: object detection, corner extraction, and 3D localization. Firstly, a lightweight hybrid attention mechanism is incorporated into the YOLOv5 network to enable edge deployment and enhance the detection accuracy of unloading hoppers in complex industrial scenarios. Secondly, an image processing approach combining depth consistency constraint (DCC) and geometric structure constraints is designed to achieve sub-pixel level extraction of key corner points. Finally, a real-time 3D localization method is realized by integrating corner-based initialization with an RGB-D SLAM tracking mechanism. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed system achieves an average localization accuracy of 97.07% under challenging working conditions. This system effectively meets the comprehensive requirements of automation, intelligence, and high precision in railway bulk cargo unloading processes, and exhibits strong engineering practicality and application potential. Full article

This paper presents a novel generalization of the mth-order Laguerre and Laguerre-based Appell polynomials and examines their fundamental properties. By establishing quasi-monomiality, we derive key results, including recurrence relations, multiplicative and derivative operators, and the associated differential equation. Additionally, both series and determinant representations are provided for this new class of polynomials. Within this framework, several subpolynomial families are introduced and analyzed including the generalized mth-order Laguerre–Hermite Appell polynomials. Furthermore, the generalized mth-order Laguerre–Gould–Hopper-based Appell polynomials are defined using fractional operators and we investigate their structural characteristics. New families are also constructed, such as the mth-order Laguerre–Gould–Hopper–based Bernoulli, Laguerre–Gould–Hopper–based Euler, and Laguerre–Gould–Hopper–based Genocchi polynomials, exploring their operational and algebraic properties. The results contribute to the broader theory of special functions and have potential applications in mathematical physics and the theory of differential equations. Full article

To investigate the relationship between the seeding performance of a novel pre-cut sugarcane planter designed by South China Agricultural University and operational settings, field seeding tests was conducted with the following protocol: First, the John Deere M1654 tractor’s forward velocity was calibrated, and the planter’s safe loading capacity was determined. Subsequently, eight experimental treatments (A–H) were designed to quantify the relationships between the three performance indicators: seeding density N, the seeding efficiency E and seeding uniformity (coefficient of variation, CV), and three key operational parameters: forward speed of planter v, the discharging sprocket rotational speed n, and the hopper outlet size w. Mathematical models (R20.979) between three key operational parameters with two performance indicators (N, E) was developed through analysis of variance (ANOVA) and regression analysis. The seeding rate per meter was confirmed to follow a Poisson distribution based on Kolmogorov–Smirnov (K–S) tests. When the CV was below 40%, the mean relative error remained within 3%. These findings provide a theoretical foundation for seeding performance prediction under field conditions. Full article

This article introduces the theory of three-variable q-truncated exponential Gould–Hopper-based Appell polynomials by employing a generating function approach that incorporates q-calculus functions. This study further explores these polynomials by using a computational algebraic approach. The determinant form, recurrences, and differential equations are proven. Relationships with the monomiality principle are given. Finally, graphical representations are presented to illustrate the behavior and potential applications of the three-variable q-truncated exponential Gould–Hopper-based Appell polynomials. Full article

Dredging of fine sediments and dumping of fines at disposal sites produce passive plumes behind the dredging equipment. Each type of dredging method has its own plume characteristics. All types of dredging operations create some form of turbidity (spillage of dredged materials) in the water column, depending on (i) the applied method (mechanical grab/backhoe, hydraulic suction dredging with/without overflow), (ii) the nature of the sediment bed, and (iii) the hydrodynamic conditions. A simple parameter to represent the spillage of dredged materials is the spill percentage (R_spill) of the initial load. In the case of cutter dredging and hopper dredging without overflow, sediment spillage is mostly low, with values in the range of 1% to 3%, The spill percentage is higher, in the range of 3% to 30%, for hopper dredging of mud with intensive overflow. Spilling of dredged materials also occurs at disposal sites. The spill percentage is generally low, with values in the range of 1% to 3%, if the load is dumped through bottom doors in deep water, creating a dynamic plume which descends rapidly to the bottom with cloud velocities of 1 m/s. The most accurate approach to study passive plume behavior is the application of a 3D model, which, however, is a major, time-consuming effort. A practical 1D plume dispersion model can help to identify the best parameter settings involved and to conduct fast scan studies. The proposed 1D model represents equations for dynamic plume behavior, as well as passive plume behavior including advection, diffusion and settling processes. Full article

This article presents the theory of trivariate q-truncated Gould–Hopper polynomials through a generating function approach utilizing q-calculus functions. These polynomials are subsequently examined within the framework of quasi-monomiality, leading to the establishment of fundamental operational identities. Operational representations are then derived, and q-differential and partial differential equations are formulated for the trivariate q-truncated Gould–Hopper polynomials. Summation formulae are presented to elucidate the analytical properties of these polynomials. Finally, graphical representations are provided to illustrate the behavior of trivariate q-truncated Gould–Hopper polynomials and their potential applications. Full article

Due to its good adaptability, the pneumatic conveying feeder has been widely developed and applied in recirculating aquaculture systems (RASs). Its important performances include the integrity of feed pellets and the feeding accuracy. The aim of this study was to design and evaluate a feed distribution device for a small-scale pneumatic conveying feeder. A cylindrical hopper with a feed capacity of 4 kg and a feed distribution device were designed based on theoretical calculations. The motion and force of feed pellets during the distribution process were studied using the discrete element method (DEM) simulation to evaluate the integrity of feed pellets. Additionally, to evaluate feeding accuracy, the effect of discharge disk rotational speed on single feeding quantity was studied using DEM simulations and experimental validations, as well as the effect of the proportion of feed pellets in the hopper. Results showed that the maximum force on feed pellets was 1.25 N during the distribution process. It was inferred that the feed pellets can be distributed without breaking based on their shear strength. When the rotational speed of the discharge disk was set at a maximum of 28 rpm, the relative error of single feeding quantity between simulation and actual experiments was 4.43%, and the single feeding mass was 62.74 g, suggesting an optimal speed. In addition, the average single feeding quantity ranged from 262 to 301 feed pellets at the different proportions of feed pellets in the hopper, and its coefficient of variation was 12.46%, which generally meets the distribution requirements of the small-scale feeder. This study provides a feed distribution device for a small-scale pneumatic conveying feeder and offers references for the relevant analysis of DEM simulation. Full article

After undergoing peeling-machine operations, skinned garlic cloves affect subsequent processing, and their manual removal is harmful to health. In this paper, an intelligent garlic-clove-removal test bench was designed, which mainly included a hopper, lifter, vibration conveyor, conveyor belt, visual system, removal robot, control cabinet, frame, etc. A technical method based on machine vision technology to distinguish whether or not garlic cloves had a skin was explored to ensure that the test bench could complete the recognition of the skinned garlic cloves, and to check that the test bench could also complete the removal of skinned garlic cloves. Tests were carried out to check the success rate of machine vision and the removal robot, and to optimize the parameters of the test bench. The results showed that the average success rate of machine vision was 99.15%, and the average success rate of the removal robot was 99.13%. The results also showed that the order of the three factors influence index was the conveying speed, the conveying volume, and the removal period. The regression analysis showed that when the conveying speed was 0.1 m·s⁻¹, the grasping period was 1.725 s, the conveying volume was 104.4 kg·h⁻¹, the qualified rate of the finished product was 97.15%, and the verification test result was 97.02%, which had no significant difference from the analysis result. The research results of this paper are conducive to the development of intelligent detection technology of garlic cloves, and to the development of garlic-planting technology and deep processing technology. Full article

This study introduces a novel generalized class of special polynomials using a fractional operator approach. These polynomials are referred to as the generalized Gould–Hopper–Bell-based Appell polynomials. In view of the operational method, we first introduce the operational representation of the Gould–Hopper–Bell-based Appell polynomials; then, using a fractional operator, we establish a new generalized form of these polynomials. The associated generating function, series representations, and summation formulas are also obtained. Additionally, certain operational identities, as well as determinant representation, are derived. The investigation further explores specific members of this generalized family, including the generalized Gould–Hopper–Bell-based Bernoulli polynomials, the generalized Gould–Hopper–Bell-based Euler polynomials, and the generalized Gould–Hopper–Bell-based Genocchi polynomials, revealing analogous results for each. Finally, the study employs Mathematica to present computational outcomes, zero distributions, and graphical representations associated with the special member, generalized Gould–Hopper–Bell-based Bernoulli polynomials. Full article

Issues of poor real-time performance and low accuracy in the detection of load volume in the hopper during the mechanized harvesting of wine grapes are addressed in this study through the development of a proposed volume detection method based on ultrasonic sensors. First, the ultrasonic sensor beamwidth and detection height were determined through calibration tests. Next, a test bench was used to explore the influence of the number of ultrasonic sensors and conveying speed on the detected grape pile height. Data-based regression and hopper configuration-based geometric models correlating grape load volume with detected pile height were subsequently constructed; their accuracies were compared using test bench experiments to identify the optimal detection scheme. The regression model was more accurate than the geometric model under the considered conveying speeds with a maximum relative error of 8.0% for the former. Finally, field tests determined that the average grape load volume detection error during actual harvesting was 14.4%. Therefore, this study provides an effective solution for the detection of grape load volume in the hopper during mechanized harvesting and establishes a theoretical basis for the development of intelligent grape harvesting methods. Full article

The coke and ore are stacked alternately in layers inside the blast furnace. The capability of the charging system to distribute them in the desired manner and with optimum strata thickness is crucial for the efficiency and high-performance operation of the blast furnace itself. The objective of this work is the optimization of the charging equipment of a specific blast furnace. This blast furnace consists of a hopper, a single bell and a deflector inserted in the hopper under the conveyor belt. The focus is the search for a deflector geometry capable of distributing the material as evenly as possible in the hopper in order to ensure the effective disposal of the material released in the blast furnace. This search was performed by coupling the discrete element method with a multi-strategy and self-adapting optimization algorithm. The numerical results were qualitatively validated with a laboratory-scale model. Low cost and the simplicity of operation and maintenance are the strengths of the proposed charging system. Moreover, the methodological approach can be extended to other applications and contexts, such as chemical, pharmaceutical and food processing industries. This is especially true when complex material release conditions necessitate achieving bulk material distribution requirements in containers, silos, hoppers or similar components. Full article